Two one-beds, one visa.

The median Dubai one-bed trades at about AED 1,254,000 and the median studio at about AED 725,000 — so two one-beds, or a one-bed plus a larger studio, reach AED 2M without stretching into a single unit’s asking price. The data case, from 296,804 registered DLD transactions and 2,132,619 Ejari rent contracts:

The honest downsides

Two units cost more to run than one, and we would rather you price that in now than discover it at the first service-charge invoice:

• Two service-charge bills. Each unit carries its own annual service charge, DEWA and chiller accounts, and Ejari registration. Small units often pay higher service charges per sqm than larger stock — we put both buildings’ real service-charge records in the underwriting so the net yield is computed, not assumed.
• Two tenancies. Two tenant relationships, two renewal negotiations, two possible void periods. Diversification cuts the odds both are empty at once, but doubles the admin — budget for professional management if you are overseas.
• The visa is federal, not ours. We verify the property side against DLD records and our PRO partner files the application, but UAE federal authorities decide it — and thresholds and rules can change. Current rules are confirmed on your file before you commit to anything.